VAN

(1) town, Armenia (38° 30’ N., 43° 18’ E.), at S. face of high isolated rock, on which is inscription of Xerxes; has a citadel which probably dates from 8th cent. B.C.; is encircled by wails. Several mosques and churches; some antiquities ascribed to Semi ram is; in neighborhood are orchards and vVineyards; manufactures cottons. Pop. ce. 30,000. (2) Lake, close to above. (38° 38’ N., 42° 52’ E.); salt; no visible outlet; extends about 80 m. E. to W Cid and from 20 to 40m. N. to 8S.